What are the Pros & Cons of Rubber Roofing?

A contractor using rubber roof for a home

Rubber roofing is not the first thing that a homeowner typically considers for their home. In fact, some homeowners don’t even know of this roofing option. Rubber roof is also known as EPDM (ethylene propylene diene terpolymer) roof and is roofing made from a durable synthetic rubber roofing membrane, with the two primary ingredients being ethylene and propylene. As with any roofing system, rubber roofing has its advantages and disadvantages. Let’s take a look at some pros and cons of rubber roofing.

Pros of Rubber Roofing

Cost: Rubber roofing is commonly used for flat roof jobs and is good on cost. According to Roof Calc, rubber roofing is the most affordable membrane roof, with a starting cost as low as $1.5 per square foot. This roofing material is less expensive when compared to other choices available on the market. A licensed installer is required to lay down the roof, but the ease of installation and the degree of labor are factors that reduce the cost of this type of roofing altogether.

Long-lasting: It is typical for rubber roofs to be installed in a single piece, which amount to a seamless finish or lesser seams, which is often dependent on the particular roof layout. Fewer seams mean that rubber roofs can be long-lasting because there will be fewer points for water to seep under the roofing and cause unwanted and significant damage to the house it’s intended to protect. An UV-resistant and properly installed rubber roof can have a lifespan of 50 years or more. It can also stand up to tough weather conditions, such as high winds, snow, rain and 3-inch hail.

Easy Repair: In the event that your rubber roofing suffers a leak, there is no need to panic. Repair is quick, easy and low-cost. A tube of liquid rubber or a tape designed specifically for repairing rubber are oftentimes used to get a repair job done, depending on the damage. So repairing rubber roofs is often a breeze.

Maintenance: Roof maintenance is important in ensuring the longevity of any roofing system. Rubber roofs require little maintenance work. A common maintenance measure that homeowners tend to perform on rubber roof is a paint job, done every ten years or so.

Cons of Rubber Roofing

Appearance: There is not much variety when it comes to choosing a color for rubber roofing. Rubber roofs are mostly designed in black, but today, some manufacturers have added white and off-white rubber roof for residential use. Homeowners have the option of painting their rubber roof in just about any desired color with an acrylic paint, which is effective at further extending the life of the roof.

Easily Punctured: The thin layers of the rubber roof material are easily punctured because it lacks a hard-top layer that can provide protection from sharp objects that could fall onto the synthetic rubber and penetrate into the rubber membrane. A hole can cause damaging leaks and impact insulation.

UV Affect Seams: Direct UV rays hitting the roof can cause adhesives used to hold the seams together and flashing intact to degrade quickly as time passes. The seams and flashing can separate and become vulnerable when exposed.

For your rubber roofing needs, Bay State Exteriors raises the bar, providing top quality and dependable service, great workmanship and roofing that will last for years to come. We have offices in MA, RI, & NH for your convenience. For a free quote, you can contact us online or call us at 857-389-5284. We are happy to answer any of your roofing questions. 

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Bay State Exteriors

Bay State Exteriors